How Many People (and Their Bikes) Can One Little Boat Carry?

The Island Line Trail is always an amazing place—and the Bike Ferry is always an amazing experience. It's even better when the Ferry reaches a major milestone: 16,000 passengers and their bikes taken across the Cut in a single season!

April Green didn't know just how special her Island Line experience was going to be. She and her husband were in Vermont visiting family on October 6, 2017, and were trying to ride as much of Vermont's roads and rail trails as possible during their short stay. April's sister had previously shared pictures of a ride on the Island Line Trail, and April and John knew they had to experience it for themselves.

The crew counted—15,997, 15,998, 15,999—as riders filed down the gangplank with their bikes. When April stepped onto the ferry, she was welcomed aboard with claps and cheers. Pictures were taken, gifts were given and Captain Ed took all on an extended (but still short) sightseer's detour to mark the occasion.

The Island Line Bike Ferry has carried nearly 100,000 passengers since the first crossing of the mouth of the Winooski River in 1998. Island Line passengers have begun their journeys from as far away as Australia and as close as Colchester. All have ventured out onto Lake Champlain, admired the spectacular views, and boarded the Island Line Bike Ferry for a ride they'll never forget.

"We enjoyed our ride so much and loved the information and enthusiasm of all the folks on the ferry. We have ridden in many countries and LOVED riding in Vermont. Thanks so much!"